How Can Calorie Restrictive Diets Be Harmful?

 

Calories serve as the fuel for various bodily processes, including the essential functions of the nervous system, digestion, and physical activities. While many individuals attempt to limit calorie intake to lose weight, this approach can result in unintended consequences and may not necessarily result in weight loss.



1. Calorie restriction can result in insufficient energy levels.

    Particularly when carbohydrate intake is limited, it may hinder workplace functionality, diminish             cognitive abilities, and impair physical performance.

2. Restricting Calories can result in nutrient deficiencies.

    Insufficient daily protein intake can lead your body to draw from its lean tissue reserves for necessary     nutrients, potentially resulting in muscle loss.

    Insufficient intake of vitamins and minerals can lead to various health issues. Your body may struggle     to maintain strong bones, your immune system could become compromised, and you might                     experience skin problems, hair loss, or other conditions.

3. Restricting Calories can result in hormone disruption.

    Hormone production flourishes in bodies that are well-nourished. This can lead to various outcomes,     such as infertility in both genders or exacerbating metabolic disorders like Polycystic Ovary                    Syndrome.

4. Restricting Calories can result in lowering your metabolism.

   Severe calorie restriction can reduce the number of calories burned daily. Additionally, a decrease in       muscle mass may lead to a plateau in weight loss. When normal calorie consumption is resumed, the       weight often returns more quickly than it was lost.


How Does One Prevent the Harmful Effects and Still Achieve a Healthy Weight?

Several factors contribute to this, including consuming sufficient calories, increasing physical activity, eating whole and minimally processed foods, maintaining low stress levels (including positive stress), and getting ample sleep. These are essential for reaching a healthy weight.


Are you ready to get started? 

Contact Natalie Hofmeister MS, RDN, LD/N at Lifestyle Nutrition Consulting

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